Since 1961 Scots have gathered in Salado every second weekend in November for the Scottish Gathering and Highland Games, a celebration of all things Scottish and the major annual fundraising event for the Salado Museum and College Park.

This year the museum honors that tradition with the 59th Scottish Gathering and Highland Games as a virtual experience from November 13th to the 15th at SaladoMuseum.org.

“The 2020 Online Gathering is a tribute to all the people and organizations who have made the past 59 years possible,” says Liz Patranella, Scottish Gathering Co-Chairman. “It is an opportunity to enjoy and remember the sights and sounds of previous Gatherings…the skirl of bagpipes, tossing the caber, men in kilts, Highland dancing, and the largest gathering of Scottish Clans in Texas.”

In addition, the public is invited to a live Opening Ceremony on Salado’s College Hill at 12 Noon, Saturday, November 14, the time the Gathering’s parade and opening ceremonies are normally held. Pipe Major Doug Slauson of the Silver Thistle Pipes and Drums will perform and there will be a brief presentation to open the virtual Gathering. 

The ceremony will be livestreamed on the museum website.

“The Scottish Gathering is the main fundraising event for the museum each year. The financial loss from the cancellation this year is a major challenge,” Patranella says. “We welcome donations of any amount online or by mail to support the continuation of this annual tradition.”

Next year, the Salado Museum will celebrate the 60th Scottish Gathering and Highland Games on November 12-14 at its new location, Johnny’s Outback at 301 Thomas Arnold Drive in Salado.

To support the Museum, donate online at www.saladomuseum.org or by mail to Salado Museum and College Park, PO Box 36, Salado, TX 76571.